CRIME-FIGHTING SmartWater property marking kits have been distributed in the Derby Docks area of Crewe in a bid to cut burglary rates.

The kits, which leave an invisible mark on property only visible to specialist infrared scanners, have already been distributed in the area earlier this year, but following their success, Cheshire Police have been back out pounding the beat in the Docks’ Fallowfield Court.

PC Graeme Smith, handing out the kits on Saturday with officials from Neighbourhood Action, Wulvern Housing and Homewatch, said: “We think the results in Derby Docks are very significant.

“A lot of regeneration work has been carried out here and the changes have been dramatic.”

Crime rates in the Derby Docks area have fallen up to 60% in recent months, and since 120 homes accepted kits in the first phase, no burglaries have been reported.

“People here take pride in their homes, and marking up their belongings to protect them from thieves was a natural step to take.

“The absence of burglary has been the best possible proof of the progress which is being made.”

The SmartWater kits have been funded by the Crewe and Nantwich Safer Communities Partnership and are being offered for free.

Each bottle contains a code which is registered, meaning any marked item stolen and later recovered can immediately be traced back to its owner.

PC Smith added: “We are expecting a good uptake, and people generally like the idea and as well as the added chance of recovering stolen property there is a good crime prevention element.

“Signs and posters make it clear to potential burglars that Smart water is in use in the area, so they may have trouble disposing of any stolen property and they run an increased risk of being caught.”

Rob Allen, partnerships director at Wulvern Housing, said: “SmartWater is a fantastic way and discreet way of keeping property safe, and the response has been great.”